Baldacci to write fantasy novel for young adults

NEW YORK (AP) — David Baldacci has decided to enter the fantasy world.

The best-selling thriller writer has a deal with Scholastic Inc. for a young adult novel, "The Finisher." Scholastic, a top children's publisher, announced Monday that the book is scheduled to come out in March.

Baldacci's book will feature 14-year-old Vega Jane and the frightening secrets of her native village of Wormwood.

Baldacci, the author of popular thrillers such as "Absolute Power," has written for young people before. He recently contributed the final book, "Day of Doom," for the Scholastic multimedia series "The 39 Clues."